As more New Jersey homeowners make the switch to solar, many are taking the next step—adding a battery backup system. Solar panels lower your electric bill, but when paired with the right battery, they do something even more powerful: they give you control over your home’s energy supply.
This guide walks through how battery storage works, the types of batteries SolarMe installs, and which brands offer the most reliable performance for homes across the state.
Why Add Battery Storage to Your Solar System?
Solar panels generate power during the day. But what happens at night, or during a power outage? Without a battery, that extra power flows to the grid. With a battery installed, that energy can be stored and used when you actually need it—after sunset, during a storm, or whenever the grid goes down.
Backup storage turns your home into a mini power plant. It keeps your fridge running, lights on, and phones charged when the neighborhood goes dark. It can also help you avoid high electricity rates during peak hours.
How Battery Backup Works
Here’s a basic breakdown. During the day, your panels charge the battery after powering your home. At night or during an outage, your system switches to battery power. Most batteries are connected through an inverter, which manages the flow of electricity in and out.
Modern systems can be programmed to reserve a portion of energy strictly for emergencies. Others use smart load management to prioritize essential circuits like refrigerators, sump pumps, and Wi-Fi.
Battery Types Installed by SolarMe
SolarMe installs four types of battery storage technologies, each with unique advantages. Choosing the right one depends on your usage, budget, and goals.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid systems are the most affordable option for backup storage. With 80–90% efficiency and a cycle life of 300 to 500 charges, they work best for homes that need occasional backup power but aren’t relying on the battery every day. Their lifespan is shorter, but they offer reliable performance for basic emergency coverage.
Lithium-Iron Batteries (LiFePO4)
Lithium-iron batteries are ideal for daily cycling. They run with 90–99% efficiency and offer between 2,000 and 5,000 charge cycles. These batteries are durable, long-lasting, and well-suited for homes that want to store energy every day to reduce grid reliance. Though more expensive upfront, the long lifespan often offsets the cost over time.
Flow Batteries
Flow batteries have a longer lifespan than any other type—up to 10,000 cycles. They store energy using liquid electrolytes, which can be scaled up for larger energy demands. These systems are ideal for homes with high usage or for properties with complex energy needs, though they are generally more expensive and require more space.
Nickel-Cadmium Batteries
These batteries offer a balance between cost and performance. With 1,000 to 2,000 charge cycles and 80–90% efficiency, they are durable and tolerant of overcharging. One tradeoff: they contain toxic metals, so they may not be the first choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Top Brands SolarMe Installs
SolarMe partners with leading manufacturers to ensure quality and reliability:
Generac PWRcell
Generac’s PWRcell system is a scalable solution that works well for medium to large homes. Known for its integration with solar inverters and smart energy management features, PWRcell is a strong fit for homeowners focused on performance and flexibility.
Enphase Energy Storage
Enphase batteries use lithium-iron phosphate chemistry and are modular, so they can grow with your home’s energy needs. The system includes built-in monitoring and integrates seamlessly with Enphase microinverters. These are ideal for homes with limited space or smaller solar arrays.
Tesla Powerwall
Tesla’s Powerwall offers 13.5 kWh of storage and 100% depth of discharge. It’s sleek, wall-mounted, and backed by advanced software that allows homeowners to monitor usage and prioritize backup loads. SolarMe is a certified installer, which means the setup meets Tesla’s quality standards and includes full warranty coverage.
How to Choose the Right Battery for Your Home
Every household is different, but here are some practical considerations to help guide the decision:
- Power Outage Frequency: If your area sees frequent blackouts, go with a system that prioritizes emergency reliability, like the Powerwall or PWRcell.
- Daily Use vs. Emergency-Only: Lithium-iron works best for daily cycling. Lead-acid may be sufficient for backup only.
- Space Constraints: If you’re tight on space, Enphase’s compact design is a good fit.
- Budget: Lead-acid is most affordable. Lithium and flow batteries cost more but last longer.
- Monitoring Needs: Want real-time visibility? Tesla and Enphase both offer robust tracking apps.
SolarMe performs a full assessment to match the right system to your home’s size, energy use, and emergency needs. Whether you’re adding backup to an existing solar array or starting fresh, the team handles permitting, installation, and maintenance.
Backup Batteries and New Jersey Incentives
In New Jersey, adding battery storage may make you eligible for additional incentives. When paired with a qualified solar installation, batteries often fall under the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit. If your system feeds excess energy back to the grid, your battery setup may also support participation in the state’s SREC-II performance program.
Why Homeowners Are Investing in Backup Now
New Jersey’s climate has brought more frequent storms, and many utilities are dealing with aging infrastructure. As grid reliability becomes less predictable, more homeowners are choosing to control their own energy.
SolarMe offers the tools to do just that. With top-tier battery options and expert installation, you’re not just buying backup power—you’re buying peace of mind.
